Self-employed psychotherapist killed himself after worrying about finances during lockdown, inquest hears
A psychotherapist who was worried about his finances during lockdown killed himself by setting his car on fire.
Jason Carombayenin poured petrol from a can into his VW Golf car before locking himself in and setting it alight. The 48-year-old died from severe burns and hot gas inhalation.
According to his wife, Mr Carombayenin worked for the NHS before becoming self-employed in August 2019.
Joanne Carombayenin said in a statement that her husband worked as a community mental health nurse and then retrained as a psychotherapist in 2011.
The 46-year-old told an inquest in Tauton, Somerset, that Mr Carombayenin spoke about the financial implications of Covid-19.
"He regretted leaving more and more the security of the NHS and was increasingly concerned about the financial situation,” she said.
But she added that her husband had a job offer from the NHS which would have started in June - just a month after he died.
She described Mr Carombayenin as a “loving and caring husband and father”.
A fire investigation report read by the coroner said a naked flame had been deliberately applied to combustible materials. A large box of matches was discovered next to an opened can of petrol.
Mr Carombayenin, of Street, Somerset, had placed his mobile phone in the boot containing a suicide note.
The burning car was discovered in a lay by on Back River Drove at Glastonbury one evening in May.
Coroner Tony Williams recorded a suicide conclusion.
"Jason deliberately set fire to his car while in the driver's seat with the intention of ending his life,” he said.
Mr Carombayenin had no history of mental health issues at all, the hearing heard. His wife said he had no underlying health conditions and was a fit and healthy man.
She added that he had been in contact with his father and sister during lockdown and was looking forward to a face to face meeting when it was possible.
The Bristol born father had a masters degree in cognitive behavioural Psychotherapy and a degree in Mental Health.
He said in his business brochure: "As a therapist, my aim is not to 'fix' people but to give people the tools to help 'fix' themselves.
"I have witnessed people overcome huge difficulties, return to work, enjoy improved personal relationships and move forward with their lives in a way they would never have thought possible."
